Pakistan Railways has accelerated work on its largest-ever digitisation initiative, confirming that the first phase of the Railway Advanced Infrastructure Network (RAIN) Project will be completed by June 2026.

The update was shared during a high-level review meeting chaired by Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi on Monday, where the Directorate of Information Technology briefed officials on the project’s progress.

Under Phase I of the RAIN Project, all trains and locomotives will be equipped with real-time GPS tracking systems. Officials said this step will significantly improve train monitoring, traffic management, and operational transparency across the rail network.

A key component of the project is the installation of a 1,700-kilometre fibre-optic network along the ML-1 route. This infrastructure is expected to strengthen communication, support digital operations, and enable data-driven decision-making throughout Pakistan Railways.

Major railway stations are also being transformed into “safe and smart” facilities, following the Rawalpindi station model. These upgraded stations will offer enhanced security systems, modern passenger services, and high-speed internet connectivity to improve the overall travel experience.

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Minister Hanif Abbasi said Pakistan Railways is financing the entire first phase through its own revenue, reflecting a move towards financial self-reliance. He added that digitisation will help reduce train delays, improve safety standards, and ensure quicker responses to emergencies.

To further strengthen oversight, new command-and-control centres are being established at the Lahore headquarters as well as in all divisional offices.

In a separate development, the Senate Standing Committee on Railways unanimously elected Senator Shahadat Awan as its new chairman during a meeting at Parliament House. His nomination was proposed by Senator Dost Ali Jeesar and seconded by Senator Ashraf Ali Jatoi.